Construction has started on a £1.7 million full-size 3G soccer pitch and additional parking at Laurelhill Sports Zone, which will complement the existing synthetic hockey pitch.

This upgraded facility will serve both Laurelhill Community College and Killowen Primary School as part of their curriculum, while the wider community will have the opportunity to book the pitch outside of school hours and on weekends.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said: "The council is pleased to invest in another open space project to offer both local schools and the community access to quality sporting facilities. The soccer pitch will provide valuable grounds for the schools to offer PE sessions and after school activities, which will hopefully inspire an interest in the sport at grassroots level.


"Sports clubs, youth groups and friends can also access the pitch, outside of school hours, providing a fantastic community hub for everyone to enjoy. Taking part in physical activity is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing therefore the new pitch will offer a fun way to get everyone moving together. I look forward to visiting the facility once the project is completed to see many goals being scored."

The project is expected to be completed in March 2025.